Awards

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Washington Branch AALAS presents two awards annually.

Congratulations to 2023 winners: 


This is an opportunity to recognize and nominate a staff member, fellow co-worker, friend, or acquaintance in the local research community that meets the spirit and intent of each of these awards. Recipients of either of these awards receive a plaque and a $100 check.

Bette J. Varnam Washington Branch
Technician of the Year Award

The Washington Branch Technician of the Year Award was re-named in 1993 as a tribute to Bette J. Varnam. Bette was an Animal Technician with the Division of Animal Medicine (now the Department of Comparative Medicine) at the University of Washington for 14 years and lost her fight with cancer in June 1991. Bette defined the true meaning of why many of us entered the field of Laboratory Animal Science and remained in it for so many years; she loved the animals and they were her first priority. Throughout her struggles and challenges, Bette never lost sight of her devotion and commitment to being an advocate for those that could not fend for themselves—the animals. The recipients’ of this Award carry on a legacy of a true professional and compassionate colleague.

Ron Orta Washington Branch Member of the Year Award

Washington Branch Member of the Year Award was  renamed to honor of our friend and colleague who died in 2007. The Award is presented to an individual who has actively participated in the Washington Branch and encourages participation by others in activities which promote Washington Branch AALAS and laboratory animal science in general. Ron had a brilliant career in Laboratory Animal Management and later sales, but his true calling was that of a teacher. He was an active member and participant in the Washington Branch and hosted many Branch Picnics. Because of his commitment of personal time and resources he was honored as an Honorary Lifetime Washington Branch Member. Ron never excluded anyone from anything. In his world there was never an uninvited guest. Ron was very compassionate about helping and fulfilling the needs of those less fortunate. Ron mentored, encouraged, and challenged everyone to achieve high standards in animal care, facility management, self worth and esteem. His memory continues to remain with us through this Award.

To make a nomination fill out one of the following forms, and submit to the Awards Chair.

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Nomination Application for the Bette J. Varnam Animal Technician of the Year Award

Download Nomination Form

Provide a short sentence that best describes the nominee’s character that makes him/her deserving of this Award.

Demonstrated examples of exceptional performance by

Continues professional growth by

Shows concern for animal welfare by

Participated as a team player by

I think fulfills the spirit and intent and should receive this Award because he/she:

Check this to prove you’re human.

click arrow

Nomination Application for the Ron Orta Washington Branch Member of the Year Award

Download Nomination Form

Provide a short sentence that best describes the nominee’s character that makes him/her deserving of this Award.

Personal/professional mentoring of staff by

Contributions to the field of laboratory animal science include

Demonstrated a “Can-Do” attitude by

Participated in Branch activities by

Check this to prove you’re human.

The Bette J. Varnam Washington Branch
Technician of the Year Award Recipients:

2023 –

2022- Tyler B.

2021 – Winnie D.

2020 – Wiley L.

2019 – Ramel V.

2018 – Peter D.
2017 – Alma R.
2016- Mercedes J.
2015 – Michael D.
2014 – Denise C. FHCRC
2013 – Amy P.
2012 – Rick B.
2011 – Thanh T.
2010 – Mary F.  – Seattle Genetics, and
Loida T.  – University of Washington

The Ron Orta Washington Branch Member
of the Year Award Recipients:

2023 –

2022 – Christine L.

2021 – Ashley R.

2020 – Dave R.

2019 – Traci W.

2018 – Sakara P.
2017 – Dean R.
2016- Elizabeth C.
2015 – Andrea S.
2014 – Amber C.- FHCRC
2013 – Amanda K.
2012 – Rainy R.
2011 – Susan B. and Tim D.
2010 – Laurie W.